Inspiration

For the last couple of years it was all about the DKNY Cozy, which I'm over. I still really like the look. It's just that my daughter is all into "long, slouchy cardigans" and mine end up missing... So, while drooling  perusing over the Diane Von Furstenburg smorgasbord site, I noticed a *new* look: PONCHOS!




No, not your run-of-the-mill raincoat/crochet/Mexican variety, think of them more as a
layering element. Im thinking I'll be able to brave the impending cold now.

They don't have to be true ponchos, Maybe an oversized vest or sweater...
The keys to the look:
Solid colors.
Wear something fitted underneath.
Optional:
Boots. (oh gosh, unbury me please.) 
Carry a BEAUTIFUL bag.

(Hmmm, ya know the kids like Ramen and Chef Boy R Dee, maybe I can sneak some of the next few months groce...)

 

Apples/Inverted Triangles rejoice! We can hide our boobs and tummies AND showcase our booties and legs in slim fit pants/skirts.



Over midi skirts or tights with boots!! S-L-E-E-K

Speaking of Ms. von Furstenburg,
I'll take one of EVERYTHING in her shop. Thanks :)

OK, bring on the fall/winter sewing.

Inspiration

Toned down "Tribal"...

As much as I love the Afrocentric styles Nakimuli, Boxing Kitten, Adama Paris, etc. are bringing, I'm somewhat over that look, since it's gone mainstream. In fact, it was one of the reasons I started sewing. A lot of my early sewing/diy projects were inspired by Ashaka (still LOVE her much), SHNY, Catch A Fire & Duro Olowu

I still want to do some clothing with that "ethnic flair," but keep away from the busy, bright, costumey look. I would like to keep the silhouette classic and less of a "statement."

Recent looks by Duro Olowu and Oscar de la Renta  are giving me some good guidelines on how to keep it low-key and sophisticated.

Here are my Toned Down "Tribal" guidelines:

1. Go for prints with fewer colors and with less contrast
2. Pair ethnic & classic (like the simple black skirt and trousers below, a tweed jacket like above, or LACE!)
3. Add leather! (or faux)
4. Mix prints in the same color scheme or pair bright with muted.
5. Go for non-exaggerated silhouettes - no pointy/puffy shoulders, no excessive drape, no ruching.

Pride

So yesterday I tried my hand at the color blocking craze with a combo of red, black & green. My picture quality is absolutely terrible, accept my apologies, but you can get an idea of where I was going.



Black cardi - Thrifted
Green Blouse; hand me down from Mom.
It's actually a really pretty Jade green but my pictures SUCK!! lol!!!!
Red Pants - New Look 6033, Fabric - Polyester crepe from stash
Shoes - Target



Gratuitous hair pic!
Seriously tho, I wanted to show my earrings that go along with the outfit "theme"